How we work "Good science requires knowledge – and attitude."

Since early 2025, Prof. Dr. Reza Darvishi Kamachali has headed Division 5.5 "Modeling and Simulation" at BAM. In this interview, he talks about his first months at BAM, his research on complex microstructures, the relevance of his work for materials and safety engineering – and why, for him, attitude is an integral part of science.

Professor Darvishi Kamachali, you’ve been at BAM for nearly six months now. How have you experienced this time – what surprised, impressed, or particularly occupied you?

BAM offers an exceptional combination of fundamental research and societally relevant challenges. I’ve been especially impressed by the diversity – both in terms of topics and people – and the openness to scientific innovation paired with strong commitment. This environment is allowing me to contribute from day one, particularly by advancing innovative models for complex materials, microstructures, and processes.
Material modeling is a highly specialized and forward-looking field. What questions are currently at the heart of your research – and what fascinates you most about it?

Several important developments are currently underway in our division. I’m particularly fascinated by how we can move beyond simply describing defects – such as grain boundaries or dislocations – and systematically integrate them into the materials design process. At the center of this effort are physics-based, scalable models that combine thermodynamics, machine learning, and multi-phase-field methods to predict microstructures rather than just replicate them.

BAM is committed to safety in technology and chemistry. How does your research contribute to this mission?

Material safety is based on understanding – especially of internal structures and their potential weaknesses. Our models allow us to identify critical microstructures at an early stage, such as those arising from chemical embrittlement caused by hydrogen or lithium, like in batteries, or in weld joints. In doing so, we directly contribute to a safe materials innovation. My vision is that modeling-guided, targeted experiments are our path to reliable predictions of material integrity.

Your field of research also has a strong application focus. Where do you currently see specific areas of application – in terms of science with impact?

Our approaches open up new possibilities for digital materials development – for example, in additive manufacturing, energy technology, or high-temperature materials. Especially exciting is the potential of using defect phase diagrams as ‘digital twins’ for microstructure processes in industry and safety engineering.

BAM stands for interdisciplinarity and networking. How does this play a role in your work – both within BAM and in national and international research networks?

Material innovation knows no disciplinary boundaries. That’s why I work closely with colleagues in experimentation, simulation, and AI – both within BAM and in broader contexts, such as in DGM networks, DFG programs, and international research consortia. These connections are essential for generating new insights and standards beyond the limits of individual disciplines.

In addition to leading division 5.5 at BAM, you also hold a professorship at the University of Münster. What do you hope to gain from this close connection?

The connection to the university enables me to synergistically link fundamental research with application-oriented modeling and to directly involve young talents in translationally relevant projects. At the same time, it fosters knowledge transfer between academic excellence and regulatory relevance – a link that is very important to me.

Finally: What motivates you in your daily work – both in research and in your leadership role?

What motivates me is the conviction that good science is not only about knowledge, but also about attitude. I aim to create an environment where ideas can flourish – with scientific depth and a clear awareness of the positive societal impact in service of humanity.